342. From Survival Mode to Systemic Change: Featuring Dr. Casey Jakubowski

In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, Todd Nesloney shares insights from his new online course, Culture Unleashed: Your Guide to Creating a School Kids Deserve. Together, we explore how school culture isn’t accidental—it’s intentionally built through vision, relationships, and purposeful action. Todd unpacks strategies for creating classrooms and campuses where joy, connection, and growth thrive. Whether you’re a teacher seeking to reenergize your classroom or a leader aiming to transform your campus, this conversation provides the tools and encouragement to unleash the culture your students truly deserve. About Todd Nesloney: Todd Nesloney is the Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). He was previously a Principal/Lead Learner at a PreK-5 school in Texas. He is an award winning author for his work in co-authoring Kids Deserve It! and Sparks in the Dark. He has also written the book Stories from Webb and published a children’s book, Spruce & Lucy. Todd has been recognized by John C. Maxwell as a Top 10 Finalist for the 2018 Transformational Leadership Award, by the White House as a Connected Educator “Champion of Change”, the National School Board Association as one of the “20 to Watch” in Education, the Center for Digital Education as one of their “Top 40 Innovators in Education”, the BAMMYs as the “National Elementary Principal of the Year” and the “National Elementary Teacher of the Year”, and the Texas Computer Education Association as their “Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year”. FREE RESOURCE: 4 Simple Steps to Difficult Conversations No one likes to have difficult conversations but they don’t have to be…..difficult! When you sign up for Todd’s email list you get these 4 easy steps on how to make every difficult conversation a success! Follow Todd Nesloney:  Website: https://www.toddnesloney.com/ Twitter (x): https://twitter.com/TechNinjaTodd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToddNesloney/ — BIG NEWS! I'm speaking at The Thrive Conference on September 4th and I can't contain my excitement! As one of 10 educators sharing real strategies that actually WORK, I'll be joining amazing sessions like "PLC's Against Humanity" and "Art That Makes Kids Better Learners." ✨ September 4th, 3-8pm CST ✨ 100% FREE via Zoom ✨ 5 PD hours for IL & OK educators ✨ No travel needed - join from anywhere! This isn't your typical sit-and-get PD. We're talking game-changing strategies from educators who are in the trenches making magic happen every day! Ready to transform your teaching...

In this forward-looking episode of Aspire to Lead, Brad Waid, international speaker and author of the upcoming book Racing the Future, joins me to explore how technology is reshaping classrooms and careers. From sparking discovery in students to preparing them for jobs that don’t yet exist, Brad shares powerful insights on the role of emerging technology in shaping the future workforce. We also dive into how schools can leverage innovation to create learning environments that are engaging, relevant, and future-ready. About Brad Waid: Brad is an Award-winning Emerging Technology Leader, International Keynote Speaker, Futurist, Educator, Visionary, and Author specializing in AR/VR/XR, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Industry 4.0.  He is tabbed as one of the top 20 Global Futurist & Keynote Speakers by TAFFD (Transdisciplinary Agora for Future Discussions), recognized as the #14 influencer world-wide in Augmented Reality by Onalytica as well as being recognized as one of the “20 to Watch” by the National School Board Association.   Follow Brad Waid Website: www.bradwaid.com  Twitter (X): @techbradwaid Instagram: @techbradwaid Facebook: Brad Waid Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-waid-21187593/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradwaid3790  Other: www.newhorizonsglobal.net    — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available!  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce...

In this inspiring episode of Aspire to Lead, I’m joined by Dr. Kathy Perez and Margaret Coughlan, co-authors of The Emerging Teacher Leader: 6 Dynamic Practices to Nurture Professional Growth. Together, we explore the true value of teacher leadership and how it shapes not only school culture but also student learning. Kathy and Margaret share their own educational and leadership journeys, unpack what it means to lead without a title, and reveal strategies to help schools empower teachers to embrace their hidden leadership potential. We also dive into the six dynamic practices outlined in their book and discuss which one teacher leaders often find the most challenging to master. If you’ve ever wondered how teacher leadership can drive meaningful growth in schools—or how to step into leadership yourself—this episode will give you the clarity, inspiration, and actionable tools to take the next step. About Kathy Perez and Margaret Coughlan Dr. Kathy Perez and Margaret Coughlan are committed to the ongoing growth of teachers as leaders through their collective work with teachers in the United States and across the globe. Dr. Kathy Perez  is an international presenter and consultant in addition to her work within the United States. She works extensively with teachers, administrators, and parents to support teacher growth and leadership. In addition, Dr. Perez is a notable author who has written several books to guide and support educators. This is her first co-authored book with Dr. Coughlan. In addition, Dr. Perez has created and facilitated a master’s level teacher leadership program that encourages and develops the teacher leader’s voice – a needed ingredient in leadership, and action - through action research projects focused on practice. Dr. Coughlan has supported countless teachers developing their leadership development in the graduate program, working with teachers on deep reflection on the impact of their action research on practice. Her research has focused on teacher leadership development during the tenure of teaching.. Dr. Coughlan supports new teachers and mentors through her work in teacher induction. Dr. Coughlan is a teacher leader practitioner who is committed to the ongoing development of teacher leadership throughout a teacher leaders’ journey. Follow Kathy Perez Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/DrKathyPerez Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkathyperez/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katherine.perez.5817300 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-perez-1096482a/ Follow Margaret Coughlan Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-coughlan-ed-d-16727b2b/ — Magic Mind If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I’m super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind! I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon. A boost of energy Healthy Ingredients Easy to...

Superintendent and author Dr. Dan Stecken joins me to share his personal journey through burnout and the inspiration behind his book Stressed Leaders: Stay in the Game. In this candid conversation, we discuss why leaders aren’t broken—they’re burned out—and how that critical distinction can reshape how we approach leadership, recovery, and sustainability. Dr. Stecken reveals the moment he realized his leadership approach was unsustainable, the mindset shifts and boundaries that help leaders protect their well-being, and the daily habits that fuel long-term success without sacrificing purpose. We also explore the Stressed Leaders movement and the supportive community he’s building for leaders who want to thrive instead of simply endure. If you’re feeling the weight of leadership, this episode offers practical strategies, renewed perspective, and the encouragement you need to stay in the game. About Dan Stecken: Dan Stecken is the District Superintendent of Seneca Township High School in North Central Illinois. He is known for implementing "The Seneca Way" and achieving the "Great Place to Work" certification for his district. Stecken also authored "A Stressed Leaders Journey, the Rookie's Guide to Being a School District Superintendent" and hosts a weekly newsletter with the same title. He created the Stressed Leaders Conference and is dedicated to supporting leaders who are experiencing burnout.  Beyond his work in education, Stecken has also focused on his own well-being, experiencing a health scare and prioritizing work-life balance after noticing the challenges other leaders faced. He has lost over 100 pounds, and his journey has inspired him to create the Stressed Leaders Conference and community to support other leaders. His work emphasizes the importance of community, accountability, and finding purpose in leadership roles.  Follow Dan Stecken Website: https://www.stressedleaders.com   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-stecken/  https://www.amazon.com/Stressed-Leaders-Stay-Dan-Stecken/dp/B0FCBY9K8M?crid=2C0KDGD81A13K&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TD3w0n-0AHVc5qx6sPNRUQ.gxDiwhqfXD3oL4g8bBkGJcx6ANNVkPzWmJmE7iYBW1o&dib_tag=se&keywords=stressed+leaders+dan+stecken&qid=1754841191&sprefix=stressed+leaders+dan+stecken%2Caps%2C175&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=f60b88d9f0bf40874a2214a06293be5d&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl — Magic Mind If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I’m super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind! I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon. A boost of energy Healthy Ingredients Easy to drink throughout the day EXCITING OFFER! Try Magic Mind for up to 50% off:...

In this special joint episode of Leaning Into Leadership and Aspire to Lead, Darrin Peppard and Joshua Stamper team up once again for their annual back-to-school leadership conversation. As educators and leaders gear up for a new year, Darrin and Joshua dive deep into: What clarity looks like at the start of the school year How new leaders can define success before the chaos begins Building relationships and trust before pushing new initiatives The power of clearly modeling expectations Making feedback, coaching, and support part of your leadership culture Practical ways to sustain clarity, energy, and intentionality all year long Whether you're just stepping into leadership or returning for your 20th year, this episode offers real-world strategies to help you start strong and stay focused on what matters most. 👉 Related blog post: Clarity for School Leaders – What to Do Now to Set Your Team Up for Success About Darrin Peppard: Darrin Peppard is a keynote speaker, author, publisher and consultant focused on what matters most in leadership. Darrin is an expert in school culture and climate as well as coaching and growing emerging leaders. He is known for his keen insight, culture-first leadership style, and dynamic personality. In 2016, Darrin was named Wyoming Secondary School Principal of the Year by WASSP/NASSP and was the 2015 Jostens Renaissance Educator of the Year. In 2017, Darrin earned his Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Wyoming. In the summer of 2019, Darrin was inducted into the Jostens Renaissance Hall of Fame.  Darrin shares his experiences from over 25 years in education, specifically those learned as an education leader during the past 13 years. As a ‘recovering’ high school principal, Darrin talks about lessons learned and effective strategies to help leaders of all experience levels become more effective at their craft. Follow Darrin Peppard Website: www.darrinmpeppard.com & www.roadtoawesome.net  Twitter: https://twitter.com/DarrinMPeppard (@DarrinMPeppard)  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrinmpeppard/?hl=en (@darrinmpeppard) Facebook: Darrin M Peppard & Road to Awesome, LLC (page)  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrin-m-peppard-ed-d-29a7a147/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6WkYpIkcDAAItdZdM02wRg...

Welcome to a special bonus episode of the VIBE Edu Podcast! In the very first episode of the VIBE Edu Podcast, Kim Gameroz, TJ Vari, Mitch Weathers, and myself, Joshua Stamper, sit down for a raw, honest roundtable discussion about a topic every educator has strong feelings about—professional development.From the worst PD sessions they’ve ever endured to the real reasons educators are tuning out, this episode gets to the heart of why so much professional learning misses the mark. But it’s not just critique—it's a conversation grounded in action. The team shares practical strategies to make PD actually useful, meaningful, and immediately applicable on Monday morning.If you’ve ever walked out of a session thinking, “Well, that was a waste of time,” this episode is your call to reimagine what PD can and should be. Because when done right, it’s not just development—it’s transformation. — Magic Mind If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I’m super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind! I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon. A boost of energy Healthy Ingredients Easy to drink throughout the day EXCITING OFFER! Try Magic Mind for up to 49% off: https://www.magicmind.com/ATLMM20 Use my code ATLMM20 in the checkout **Shipping is not included — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available! ...

In this powerful new installment of our monthly series, Mitch Weathers, creator of Organized Binder and author of Executive Functions for Every Classroom, returns to the mic for an energizing conversation that’s all about optimizing the way students think, learn, and succeed. We kick things off with an exciting announcement about our new project, The VIBE Edu Podcast, before diving into practical strategies for enhancing retrieval practices, managing cognitive load, and boosting working memory. Mitch also shares insights on meaningful student feedback and how intentional evaluation can drive deeper understanding. If you're ready to transform classroom routines into high-impact learning experiences, this episode is your blueprint. Tune in and walk away with tools to help students not just survive, but thrive. &nbsp; About Mitch Weathers: Mitch Weathers became an exceptional educator because he once struggled as a student. Throughout his academic journey, Mitch rarely felt comfortable in the classroom. It took him seven years to graduate from college—a reflection not of ability, but of disconnection. He often experienced education as something happening around him, not something he was actively part of. That sense of isolation fueled his desire to create a different kind of learning experience. When Mitch became a teacher, he brought with him a deep empathy for students who felt unseen or overwhelmed. He quickly realized that before we can effectively teach content, we must first build the foundation for learning. That foundation is structure, consistency, and support. To meet this need, Mitch created Organized Binder—a simple, research-backed system that empowers teachers to explicitly teach executive functioning skills without sacrificing instructional time. By establishing predictable learning routines, teachers foster safer, more inclusive classrooms where students gain confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Mitch’s mission is to equip educators with the tools to help every student succeed—not just academically, but personally.   Follow Mitch Weathers: Website: www.organizedbinder.com  Twitter: https://twitter.com/organizedbinder  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/organizedbinder/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/organizedbinder  Linkedin: <span...

What if the answer to burnout wasn’t escape, but empowerment? In this transformative episode, Dr. Casey Jakubowski—educator, consultant, and founder of OK to Outstanding—joins me to unpack the real challenges and untapped potential within the profession. Together, we explore what it truly means to lead in education, even without a formal title, and how teachers can overcome imposter syndrome to embrace their inner leadership. From innovative mentoring models to creative recruitment and retention strategies, Casey shares insights that reignite purpose and inspire growth. Whether you're feeling stuck or seeking to empower those around you, this episode will challenge your thinking and elevate your leadership journey. If you're ready to go from “OK” to “outstanding,” this one’s for you. About Casey Jakubowski: Dr. Casey T. Jakubowski is a dynamic leadership consultant, speaker, and educator with over two decades of experience helping individuals and organizations grow from “okay” to outstanding. Known for his passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to servant leadership, Casey empowers teams to develop the skills, clarity, and confidence needed to lead with impact. As a nationally recognized expert in team dynamics and conflict management, Casey has successfully supported hundreds of teams—from solo entrepreneurs building their first leadership culture to large organizations navigating transformational change. His philosophy centers on one core belief: leaders grow stronger when they prioritize the growth of others. Casey has taught strategic and startup leadership at one of the top-ranked universities in the United States and has consulted across multiple industries, providing customized solutions that strengthen collaboration, boost performance, and spark innovation. A certified trainer and internationally credentialed Myers-Briggs practitioner, Casey brings research-backed strategies and real-world insight to every engagement. He is also a published author and highly regarded speaker, having presented at local, state, regional, and national events. Whether you’re building leadership capacity, improving team function, or reigniting your organization's mission, Dr. Jakubowski brings the energy and expertise to guide you forward with purpose. &nbsp; Follow Casey Jakubowski Website: https://ctjakubowski.weebly.com/  Twitter (X): https://x.com/caseyj_edu?lang=en  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctjsolutions/?hl=en  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ctjakubowski/  ...

What if the leadership phrases we rely on—like “clear is kind”—are actually holding us back? In this thought-provoking episode, Casey Watts, educational consultant and creator of the Clarity Cycle Framework, challenges conventional leadership wisdom and invites us to rethink how we lead, grow, and collaborate. We explore how faux collaboration is silently stalling school progress, how to recognize real growth beyond promotions, and the importance of embracing both vertical and lateral leadership opportunities. Casey shares powerful insights into how school leaders can move from surface-level clarity to deep, impactful communication—and how to build cultures where professional growth and authentic teamwork truly thrive. Tune in for a refreshingly honest look at what it means to lead with intention, clarity, and courage in today's schools. &nbsp; About Casey Watts Casey Watts is a Team Leadership Expert and the founder of Casey Watts Coaching &amp; Consulting, LLC. With over 20 years of experience as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and district leader, she’s seen how a lack of clarity—not effort—is what keeps teams stuck. Drawing from her time in schools and her own leadership journey, Casey created the Clarity Cycle Framework to help leaders build capacity, improve retention, and create dream teams (on purpose). She now speaks, coaches, and consults nationally, equipping leaders with tools that lead to real alignment and lasting impact. Casey also hosts The Catching Up with Casey Podcast, where she explores practical strategies for leading with clarity and intention. Follow Casey Watts: Website: www.catchingupwithcasey.com  Twitter (X): www.twitter.com/catchupcasey  Instagram: www.instagram.com/catchupwithcasey   Facebook: www.facebook.com/catchupwithcasey  Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/catchupwithcasey  YouTube: youtube.com/@catchupwithcasey  Other: https://a.co/d/25wWrLq  – Tired of the same old PD that leaves you inspired but still stuck? What if one night could shift everything? VIBEEDU: Educators Defining Unity A one-night revolution — no fluff, no empty inspiration. Just bold ideas, real strategies, and lasting change.

In this short solo episode of Aspire to Lead, I share a lesson from the art room that turned into a leadership metaphor I never forgot. Every year, students tried to "hack" an art project using the width of a ruler instead of following directions—and every time, it led to more work and frustration. As leaders, we do this too. Whether it’s a hasty email or skipping essential context, shortcuts often backfire. Tune in for this quick leadership reflection and stay to hear an exciting announcement about the brand-new VIBE Edu Podcast, launching soon with an all-star lineup: Kim Gameroz, Mitch Weathers, TJ Vari, and me, Joshua Stamper. Don’t miss this sneak peek into what’s next! Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast — Tired of the same old PD that leaves you inspired but still stuck? What if one night could shift everything? VIBEEDU: Educators Defining Unity A one-night revolution — no fluff, no empty inspiration. Just bold ideas, real strategies, and lasting change. August 1st, 2025 | 5–9 PM | ARTIC, Anaheim, CA Join authors, educational leaders, neuropsychologists, and advocates for powerful conversations that challenge the status quo. Designed for district leaders, principals, teachers, and parents of neurodivergent students ready to lead with intention and take action. Learn More and Register HERE: https://www.teachinginsideout.com/vibe-edu  &nbsp; — Magic Mind If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I’m super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind! &nbsp; I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon. A boost of energy Healthy Ingredients Easy to drink throughout the day EXCITING OFFER! Try Magic Mind for up to 49% off: https://www.magicmind.com/ATLMM20 Use my code ATLMM20 in the checkout **Shipping is not included — #1 New Release, "The Language of...